Athens Truck Accident Lawyer
While any auto accident has an impact on your family, a truck accident presents very different complexities that can be truly life-changing. Truck accidents involve multiple parties and investigating the accident often takes more time. These are some of the reasons why it is so important to contact an experienced truck accident lawyer in Athens as soon as an accident occurs.
At The Dixon Firm, P.C., we understand how complex truck accidents are, and we have the knowledge and resources that clients can count on to get results.
Common Causes of Truck Accidents in Athens, Georgia
Truck accidents can happen for numerous reasons, though some causes are more common than others. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) lists the following as among the most common causes reported:
- Driver Fatigue
- Speeding
- Unfamiliar Roadways
- Intoxication – Alcohol or Prescription Drugs
- Mechanical Failures – Brakes, etc.
- Roadway Defects or Hazards
Most of these causes of truck accidents can be linked back to a specific party – the truck driver, the truck owner, or road maintenance. Of course, other drivers can sometimes be responsible for causing an accident involving a large truck.
In any of these situations, if someone’s negligence was the cause of the accident, then victims may have legal recourse. Some examples of truck accidents caused by negligence include:
- A truck driver causing an accident due to intoxication
- A truck owner fails to maintain the truck, resulting in mechanical failure
- Cargo on or in the truck was not properly secured, resulting in shifting and a loss of control
- Cargo on the truck was not secured, resulting in flying debris
- A part on the truck is defective or malfunctions or is recalled, without being replaced
If you have been injured in a truck accident involving any of these factors, contact The Dixon Firm, P.C. to find out more about your legal rights and options.
Why Truck Accidents are Complicated
While the causes of truck accidents may seem pretty straightforward, it is resolving the accident that has many complexities. First, truck owners and operators are required to abide by strict state and federal regulations. These regulations relate to everything from driving hours to rest breaks, and maintenance to loading schedules.
With this in mind, a truck accident is already complicated because there are more laws and processes involved. The first thing insurance companies or investigators will do is look to see if the truck and driver meet state and federal regulations.
Another complication of truck accidents is the fact that the truck owner and the truck driver may be two separate parties. Some truck drivers are employees of a company, and other times they are contractors. This creates complexities in determining which insurance company is responsible for covering your claim. This is further complicated if there are defective parts involved, which adds another party and representative insurance company to the situation.
Why You Need a Truck Accident Lawyer in Athens, GA
Commercial trucks are often owned and operated by different parties. That means that there may be more than one insurance company or legal team fighting against any claim that you file. By working with the truck accident lawyer at The Dixon Firm, P.C., you can be sure that your case gets the attention it deserves. Our team will help you see your case through from start to finish, including:
- Investigating the accident scene and evidence
- Gathering police reports
- Interviewing witnesses
- Gathering records from the trucking company and driver
- Contacting insurance companies and managing claims
- Negotiating to make sure insurance settlements or offers are fair to you
- Filing a legal complaint if necessary
If your claim cannot be resolved through negotiations (a settlement), then your case will proceed through formal legal channels and will go to trial. If that is the case, The Dixon Firm, P.C. will prepare your case with the goal of maximizing your compensation and ensuring that justice is served.
Damages in a Truck Accident Claim
The purpose of filing a truck accident claim is to restore you to your position before the accident occurred. That means compensating you for what you have lost due to the accident. In most cases, these damages include losses like:
- Medical Expenses
- Lost Income
- Property Damage or Loss
- Pain and Suffering
- Mental Anguish
- Disability or Disfigurement
The type of damages that you are able to pursue will depend on the facts of your individual case. No two truck accident claims are the same. That is another reason why it is important to work with a skilled truck accident lawyer. You need representation that works for you, your family, and your situation.
The Dixon Firm, P.C. – Trusted Truck Accident Lawyer in Athens, Georgia
Contact The Dixon Firm, P.C. if you have questions about a truck accident that has left you or a loved one injured. Let us help you understand and protect your legal rights. Our goal is to provide legal guidance that is tailored to your situation. For a free consultation, call us at 404-733-1166.